Anthony Volpe Undergoes Surgery, Puts Yankees in Jeopardy
New York Yankees shortstop Anthony Volpe recently underwent surgery to repair a partial labrum tear in his left shoulder. This situation puts his participation at the start of the 2026 season at risk and complicates the team’s plans at the shortstop position.
Volpe underwent surgery on Tuesday, less than a week after finishing a disappointing 2025 season. The procedure was performed by Dr. Chris Ahmad, the team doctor.
Volpe’s surgery was initially reported by several media outlets. The Yankees are expected to officially confirm the news during the end-of-season press conference, where general manager Brian Cashman and manager Aaron Boone will be present.
Volpe suffered the shoulder injury in early May and was affected by it throughout the season. He received two cortisone shots, one in July and another in September, but Cashman had indicated last month that the team believed Volpe could avoid surgery.
Recovery times for labrum operations vary, but the minimum required is four months. Cashman and Boone will discuss Volpe’s situation, but a long recovery will force the Yankees to look for alternatives at shortstop.
The future of Volpe with the Yankees was already uncertain after his poor performance during the season. The 2023 Gold Glove winner committed 19 errors, tied for third in the league, and batted only .212 with an OPS of .663. In New York’s seven postseason games, he went 5-26, with 16 strikeouts.
Jose Caballero replaced Volpe at shortstop for the last two months of the season, and the Yankees could also use Oswaldo Cabrera at that position.
George Lombard Jr., the top minor league prospect for New York, batted just .215 in 108 games at Double-A Somerset this season and is considered unlikely to be on the Yankees’ Opening Day roster in 2026.
